Meet the Obamas outside of the White House as Michelle Obama shares family stories and personal photos

Meet the Obamas

Meet the Obamas

Most Americans know our stylish First Lady as a passionate advocate for military families and healthy eating. But she started out as Michelle Robinson, the daughter of middle-class parents on Chicago's South Side. "Growing up, Barack and I watched our families work hard to make ends meet. We now feel a huge responsibility to make sure others have the opportunities we had."

“Michelle Obama is so open and honest, there were times I forgot I was talking to the First Lady of the United States. It’s evident that family is her first priority and I was touched by how they manage to stay plugged into one another’s lives in spite of a truly hectic schedule. If she can do it, anyone can.”—Susan Spencer, Woman’s Day Editor-in-Chief

Click through to see what else Susan Spencer ("SS") learned about Michelle Obama and her family.

All About Michelle

Charitable Intiatives: Launched the Let's Move campaign in 2010 to tackle the problem of childhood obesity.

Michelle Obama On...

The three words her family and friends would use to describe her. "Mom, devoted, tall."

What she would do if she had an extra hour during the day. "I'd spend time with my girls, catch up with girlfriends or read a good book."

SS: What’s your favorite quote and why?

MO: “To whom much is given, much is required,” from Luke 12:48. Growing up, Barack and I both watched our families work hard to make ends meet. Because of their hard work, I was able to get an education and, later, a job at a law firm back home in Chicago. But as much as I liked putting a dent in my student loans, I felt something was missing. So I left that law firm and got involved in non-profit work and public service. Barack and I chose these paths because we both feel a responsibility to make sure others have the same kinds of opportunities to fulfill their potential that we had.